Mental illnesses matter

  Mental illnesses aren't something that cross the minds of many. It's a subject that is widely overlooked, until it is forced into your attention.

  When a family friend committed suicide, I realized the impact mental illnesses can have. I witnessed the suffering of his family, the emptiness of the life he chose to leave behind.

  I knew then just how valuable life was, and I realized that sometimes people need help. Sometimes things get so bad, they can't handle it.

  The activism on Muskingum's campus to promote mental health awareness is vital to the advancement and care of many individuals that are struggling.

  NAMI identifies many mental illnesses, including major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD and borderline personality disorder.

  While these illnesses are serious and demand treatment or counseling, they are treatable.

  Individuals who have these illnesses can lead a  normal life with treatment.

  The key factor, of course, is that they need to be treated. If they aren't treated, the illness can worsen and lead to permanent disabilities, or even death--usually by their own hand.

  Mental illnesses are serious business. They shouldn't be taken lightly, and they should not be denied. If someone you know shows signs of a mental illness, it is important to help them.

  The greatest purpose of Mental Illness Awareness Week, this year, is to spread awareness that mental illnesses are real.

  They are diagnosed and treated just like any other illnesses, and should not be taken lightly.

  Furthermore, the mission of this week is to build acceptance of those who struggle with mental illnesses.

  They have done nothing wrong, and they shouldn't be ostracized for their illness. They are SICK.

  It isn't okay to pick on them, or to call them names, or to pretend they're just weird. They need help, and you have the ability to help them get that.

  So take a  stand for those who are too ill to stand for themselves. Be aware of the seriousness of mental illnesses and ways you can help someone who is suffering.

  This week asks us to collectively take a step forward in understanding and accepting mental illnesses in our friends, family, and in other individuals of society.

  The decision is yours...help the weak and suffering, or pick on them.